Four governors add names to Cut, Cap and Balance pledge

Four governors joined 28 congressmen and 12 U.S. senators Thursday by signing the Cut, Cap and Balance pledge. The governors are Nikki Haley of South Carolina, Rick Perry of Texas, Sean Parnell of Alaska, and Gary Herbert of Utah.

According to the press release announcing the new signatures, “many more [governors] are expected in the coming days.”

By signing the pledge, lawmakers essentially promise not to vote to raise the debt ceiling unless Congress votes to drastically cut spending, impose a cap on future spending, and approve a balanced budget amendment.

“Ending the fiscal chaos in Washington starts with real reform to the budgeting process,” said Haley in a statement announcing her signature. “Instead of taking the easy way out and raising the debt limit, it’s time for politicians to make the same tough decisions we’re making in South Carolina. Not everyone will be happy, but it’s the right thing to do for the long-term fiscal health of the country.”